Huntington Central Park

Located amid the hustle of everyday life, 350-acre Central Park in Huntington Beach serves as a haven for those who seek moments of serene solitude. There are green meadows, towering trees and quiet lakes. For those who want to get physical, there are six miles of hiking and jogging trails, a disc golf course, an exercise par course, playgrounds for children, horseshoes, fishing and a dog park. The equestrian center provides boarding, horseback riding lessons and rentals. Complete with barbecues, sinks and electricity, the sheltered group picnic area seats 200 people. This area is only available by reservation. Groups may also reserve the amphitheater and the youth campground.

Located within Central Park is the Adventure Playground, an area where children can build forts and engage in mud play.

Shipley's Nature Center is located at the northern end of the park. You can walk the looping trail inside the center in 15 minutes or turn it into a real excursion. The dirt trail, which is not stroller friendly, leads around a small pond that supports diverse wildlife such as frogs, turtles, and butterflies. Hike through the tall grass, to the pine trees and back around the entrance. The small Nature Center building holds a few preserved animals and other nature-oriented exhibits. The Nature Center building is open sporadically, so call first.

Visitors can stop for a bite at Alice's Breakfast in the Park or the Park Bend Cafe. -- Marilee Cosgrove